“It will be strange not having him around since he’s been with us for so long – I’ve had him for six seasons and it’s been privilege to train one as good and as genuine as him,” said Cruz reflecting on the horse that exits the stage as the second highest moneyspinner in local history at HK$63m.

“He was very sound, never missed any big races and he took us all over the world. He never ran a bad race and gave us so many highlights. The day he beat Silent Witness a short head in the Champions Mile stands out, as does his win in the Yasuda Kinen – he was so impressive that day. Even on his last start in the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Cup he was still very competitive against some of the best horses in the world. We’ll miss him but he has earned a long and happy retirement.”